Luminaria Anyone?

How many luminaria lightings does it take to threaten Dark Skies? I have no answer, but think of the candlepower used during this season across the Southwest. The little lights are beautiful and tomorrow night Dec. 12 will be the annual luminaria lighting at Tombstone Courthouse. The Courthouse is one of my favorite places to visit in Tombstone as it's not been commercialized and has an interesting museum. Many people might miss it because it's off the main drag. This is a free event and there will be finger foods and beverages along with Victorian-era music. Sounds cozy.

This sounds like a really cool (dress warmly) event. A campfire talk at the Red Hills Visitor Center at Saguaro N.P.-West on 12/12. This is a beautiful setting, and how fun to watch the moon rise with a roaring fire. Check out the details here. Scroll down on that page for some other interesting walks and talks.

A few more hiking opportunities this week. I know that many people don't like hiking with a group but these listings give you ideas on available hikes to do on your own along with some information on degree of difficulty. Sabino Canyon-Hike to Seven Falls on 12/12. Sabino is a fee area. More information on this hike and upcoming events here.

Birds!! Another chance to check out some of our flying friends. I still have hummers daily on my big purple sage and yesterday goldfinches were having a hayday on the gone-to-seed basil plants. You may see others at this Desert Birds Hike at Saguaro N.P.-East on Friday. This link will give you lots of information about ongoing programs at the park.

OK, that should keep you busy through the weekend. The weather looks great through the weekend (pssst, it's snowing back east). According to the weather map-we're in the best place possible this weekend.